Chasing the dream

Yesterday's walk-on tryouts had several elements — drizzle, drama (it was the start of a three-day weekend so no key-holder to Ching could be found) and eclectic characters.

But about 40 football players were able to show their talents, grit and, sometimes, girth in a tryout that should earn a few a spot on the Warriors' spring roster. Invitations are expected to be formally extended on Tuesday.

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There were what-the-heck expressions when Justin Lopez crossed the finish line of the 40-yard dash in a surprising 4.5 seconds. It was a good time considering the turf was slippery and there was a significant head wind.

Lopez then jogged back and readied himself for his second try.

"Stop!" said UH assistant coach Phil Rauscher, who coordinated the tryouts. "Don't you want to rest a little?"

Lopez didn't.

He finished his second sprint in 4.6 seconds.

Lopez is a 2009 Waialua High graduate who recently attended Leeward Community College. He is 5 feet 9 and 195 pounds, and aspires to play slotback.

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The odds would appear to be against Kendrick Simmons, a recent Leeward Community College graduate.

He hasn't played football in years.

His weight is mauka of 320 pounds.

He is 34 years old.

But Simmons, who has a background in television production, embraced the challenge of trying to make the Warriors as an offensive lineman. Several Warriors cheered as Simmons went through the 40-yard dash and L-test.

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The courting began on the basketball court.

Malcolm Okeke had been working out daily in Gym II with the hope of trying out for the basketball Warriors. Bystanders noted that Okeke's size (6-3), footwork and quickness would be transferrable skills to football. He was encouraged to participate in yesterday's tryout.

Okeke, who was born in Nigeria, did well in the speed drills despite wearing gym shoes instead of cleats.

"I never expected any of this," Okeke said. "I've never done anything like this."

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Running back Pareese Joas said he has trained regularly since graduating from Liberty High (Frisco, Texas) in 2010.